Synthesis and Characterization of Activated Carbon and Its Application for Wastewater Treatment

Abstract

The presence of chemicals, heavy metals, and colorants from textile effluents in water represent a significant health risk. To address this, a range of treatment methods, including ion exchange, membrane processes, physicochemical approaches, and biological techniques, are employed to eliminate these contaminants. Activated carbon, distinguished by its porous structure and effective pollutant, is a notable solution. An environmentally sustainable method involves producing activated carbon from agricultural and industrial waste to combat water pollution. For instance, the recycling of industrial waste, like glass fiber-reinforced plastic, can be used for water treatment via pyrolysis with a ZnCl2 activation process. The quality of the activated carbon is confirmed through characterization methods such as XRD, FTIR, SEM, and Raman spectroscopy, suggesting potential applications extending beyond water filtration, encompassing supercapacitors, fuel storage, and CO2 absorption. This study underscores the environmentally friendly potential of repurposing industrial waste for efficient and eco-conscious water purification.

Keywords

• activated carbon
• glass fiber-reinforced plastic (GFRP)
• water purification